GPS man disputes claim of East Malaysia losing kingmaker role

In the wake of the 2022 Malaysian general election, a Sarawak leader has challenged the notion that East Malaysian parties are set to lose their pivotal role in the upcoming parliamentary elections. Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, the spokesman for GPS and information chief of Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu, asserts that the political landscape could change, but emphasizes the crucial position of Sabah and Sarawak.

He contends that any analysis of national politics must acknowledge the strategic significance of these two states. "One must remember, where are Malaysia's natural resources? Where are they located? Do you think Peninsular Malaysia-based political parties are willing to take that risk by not cooperating with Sarawak or Sabah? Do they dare?" Karim articulated to Kuching-based media outlet Dayak Daily.

This assertion comes in response to Larry Sng, president of Parti Bangsa Malaysia, who expressed confidence that "based on the current trajectory" from the Negeri Sembilan election results, "it is highly likely that BN-PN will easily form a simple majority after the next general election." They had secured 98 seats in the 2022 general election, needing an additional 14 to achieve a majority.

However, Karim, while acknowledging that GPS joined the unity government to promote stability, maintains that if the political dynamics in Peninsular Malaysia shift to favor a single party or coalition capable of forming a government without the involvement of Sabah and Sarawak, GPS maintains its position.